Great Eastern Railway 1899 4 Wheel Brake Third 853
The inside of the underframe is now completely painted in black gloss which will hopefully go some way to protecting it for the next 100 years. The first of two reinforcing plates have now been made to replace the originals which regular readers may remember were cut off a few weeks ago. Lots of holes have been drilled into this plate so hopefully they are in the right place!
Meanwhile the body progresses with more woodworking on the exterior cladding and beading being undertaken. The two areas above the double luggage doors had rotted badly, partly due to there being a fireplace inserted there during 853's time as a bungalow. The two Petes have taken a side each and have been busy chipping them out ready for new material. Perhaps we could introduce some friendly rivalry and see who finishes first? Extra stars for a quality job!
British Railways 1959 Brake Corridor Composite E21224
The bodywork continues to advance along the remainder of the seaward side. This week has seen a concentration on window bottom replacement along the remaining compartments. This is being done to a high standard by resident welder Nico.
At the same time, more varnishing has been completed on the first compartment panels which had been sanded back, although it will be some time before they're fitted. To keep progress going and to "feed" the varnishers, more panels are being sanded carefully back to remove the stain and water damage and as many defects as possible. It is a lengthy process.
British Railways 1956 Tourist Second Open E4236
Five out of the six exterior doors are now complete as far as wood frame and steel skin repairs are concerned, and they have been partially reassembled. The sixth door is currently in for the corroded bits to be removed and replaced.
Work has also started on welding up some of the rotten areas around the windows. The two worst bits, around the toilet windows, have now been replaced. They are similar tasks to what is also going on with E21224, so there is lots of welding happening at the moment!
A limited amount of bodyside sanding has also been started, in some areas not requiring metal replacement.
Several press-ganged volunteers have been doing some excellent work to refresh the interior, a job we wouldn't ordinarily be able to do as the paid staff are purely concentrating on the exterior refresh. Workaday wooden panels are being freshened up with extra coats of varnish and the aluminium luggage racks and surrounding fittings are getting deep cleaned.
British Railways 1958 Class 101 Railcar Driving Trailer Second Lavatory M56352
Awaiting completion of its corridor connection.
Royal Navy 4 Wheel Flat 269
Felt seals have been added to the axleboxes, to try and keep as much rainwater out as possible.
Workshop
The clearance of green stores coach continues, and has now reached the 90% mark. The central section of the vehicle along with the old toilet and end vestibule, have all been cleared of their items which have been sorted and re-stacked on the new mezzanine floor. All being well the coach will be empty next week.
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